I am a tall, very tall tree. My roots stretch deep into the ground, and my branches reach up toward the sky. My leaves flutter in the wind and fall to the ground.
Rain is my friend. It rains and rains, and I feel at ease. I’m very, very happy when it rains. I know that the whole forest feels refreshed, too. The ponds that provide water for the animals also fill up.
All kinds of birds flit among my branches. I love the turtledoves the most. They always travel with their mates; they love life so much. When they come, my heart opens up.
I feel as if I can hear you asking, “What is a tree’s heart like?” Of course, trees don’t have hearts—let’s just say I’m imitating humans. Even without a heart, I can still feel and love. If you pluck one of my leaves, it hurts me deeply. I would cry all day long.
I know you very well. You don’t want to hurt me. I haven’t forgotten the times you hugged me and watered me. Those moments are hidden deep within me.
I love my human brothers and sisters very much. I’ll soothe you with the oxygen I release all day long. You can sit in my shade and take a siesta.
When things get tough, when your mind is confused, when you’re feeling sad or troubled, come sit by my side. My aura will envelop you, calm you, and restore your balance. When you leave my side, you’ll return home feeling hopeful and joyful once again.
Do you know what saddens me the most? That I can’t walk like you do. I’d love to walk through the forest, explore new places, take steps, and move around. But what can I do? That’s just how I’m created.
Still, thanks to my roots, I can communicate with other trees and plants. I give food to weak trees— I form friendships with other trees and chat with them.
We—the entire forest—are one family. The trees, the animals, the laurels, blackberries, and junipers; the little stream running through the middle of the forest, the fish in it, the willows, water lilies, reeds, and mosses. We are all one.
Scientists call this an ecosystem. One day, they will realize that we have a collective spirit, that we, too, have feelings and a sense of existence, and that we carry a love for life.
When you come to me, keep these words in mind. Don’t forget that I am your friend, that I will be your friend until the end of my life, that I embrace you, and that you are deeply loved.